One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe combines al dente pasta with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, making it a perfect weeknight meal when time is of the essence but you still want something comforting and delicious. The method of cooking everything in one pot allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the tomatoes and basil, resulting in a creamy and aromatic sauce that coats each strand.

This dish isn't only satisfying but also allows for customization; feel free to add vegetables, protein, or even a sprinkle of cheese to make it your own. It's a fantastic way to enjoy an Italian classic with very little effort.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine to the pot. Stir well to make sure the pasta is submerged in the broth, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed to create a sauce. If the pasta seems dry, feel free to add a splash of water or broth.
5. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the torn basil leaves. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

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